Liverpool have opened new contract talks with skipper Steven Gerrard. The Telegraph says despite his absence through injury, owners Fenway Sports Group have already held discussions with Gerrard's representatives about lengthening his current deal.

The 31-year-old has 18 months left on an existing contract, but from the moment they bought the club over a year ago FSG have made it clear they wish Gerrard to spend the remainder of his career at his boyhood team.

The same applies to Liverpool vice-captain Jamie Carragher, who signed a three year deal last year prior to the takeover but is seen by the hierarchy as integral to the club's identity.

Gerrard's existing agreement will take him to his 33rd birthday, and an extension, likely to be another two years, represents a show of faith in his ability to overcome recent injury setbacks.